I don’t know what’s going on, but I’m feeling really worried about my German Shepherd, Rocky. I’ve been reading up on preventative gastropexy surgery because my vet mentioned it after we had a bit of a scare last weekend. Rocky’s stomach seemed bloated, and he was pacing around looking super uncomfortable. It was Saturday night, of course, because these things never happen at a convenient time, right? We managed to get him settled, but I can't shake the fear that it might happen again. I’ve heard about stomach flipping with bigger breeds like mine, and it sounds terrifying. Has anyone else gone through with this procedure? I'm a mess thinking about it, and I'd love some real advice from fellow pet parents who've been in the same boat.
Appreciate the question — let's unpack this. A preventative gastropexy is a surgical procedure often recommended for breeds that are prone to a condition called gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV), or "bloat." This condition occurs when the stomach suddenly fills with gas and twists, which can be life-threatening and requires immediate attention.
The surgery involves attaching the stomach to the abdominal wall to prevent it from twisting. It's commonly considered for large, deep-chested breeds like Great Danes, German Shepherds, and Standard Poodles. The surgery can either be performed during a spay or neuter procedure or as a separate surgery.
Preventative gastropexy is generally safe and significantly reduces the risk of GDV, but it's not without risks, such as infection or adverse reactions to anesthesia. At home, feeding smaller, more frequent meals and avoiding vigorous exercise right after eating can also help reduce the risk of bloat.
Look out for signs of bloat, such as a distended belly, unproductive vomiting, restlessness, and rapid breathing. If you notice any of these signs, seek emergency care immediately.
To explore if this surgery is a good fit for your pet, I recommend scheduling a video consult with a vet on Dial A Vet. We can discuss your pet's specific risk factors and health status to make the best decision together.
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